Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delicious and easy spin on your classic elote salad! This vibrant dish combines the flavors of grilled corn and zesty ingredients, making it perfect for summer cookouts, potlucks, or any festive gathering. Its creamy texture and fresh taste will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this flavorful pasta salad in under 30 minutes.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of grilled corn, feta cheese, and spices creates an irresistible taste that evokes the essence of Mexican street food.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for barbecues, or as a light main dish. You can easily customize it by adding proteins or extra veggies.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering, picnic, or game day, this salad is sure to be a hit among friends and family.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This pasta salad can be prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. The right equipment makes all the difference in preparing your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the pasta perfectly al dente.
• Colander: Helps drain excess water from the cooked pasta quickly and efficiently.
• Grill or grill pan: Necessary for achieving that smoky flavor in the corn that elevates this dish.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all your ingredients without spilling.

Ingredients

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delicious and easy spin on your classic elote salad! Perfect for your next cookout!

For the Salad Base

• 1/2 lb radiatori pasta, cooked al dente
• 6 ears of grilled corn, kernels cut off
• 3/4 cup mayo
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup red onion, diced
• 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (more if desired)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook 1/2 lb of radiatori pasta in a large pot according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, rinse with cold water to cool it down quickly. Drain well and place it in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Grill the Corn

While the pasta is cooking, grill 6 ears of corn until they are nicely charred. Once grilled, let them cool slightly before cutting off the kernels.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the grilled corn kernels along with 3/4 cup mayo, 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 2 tablespoons minced garlic, 2 teaspoons chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, and 1/3 cup diced red onion into the mixing bowl with the pasta.

Step 4: Mix It Up

Gently stir all ingredients together until well combined. Taste your salad and adjust seasoning by adding more lime juice or salt as needed.

Step 5: Serve with Style

Serve immediately! Garnish with additional fresh cilantro, diced red onion, cotija cheese, and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your refreshing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that shines at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or a family picnic, this salad pairs well with various sides and main courses, making it a go-to option.

Pair with Grilled Proteins

• Grilled Chicken: Marinated in lime and spices, grilled chicken complements the fresh flavors of the pasta salad.
• Steak Skewers: Tender steak skewers add a hearty element that balances the salad’s creaminess.
• Shrimp Tacos: Spicy shrimp tacos create an exciting flavor contrast with the salad’s coolness.

Serve as a Side Dish

• With Tacos: This pasta salad is an excellent side for any taco night, enhancing the meal with its unique taste.
• Alongside BBQ Ribs: The creamy pasta salad cuts through the richness of BBQ ribs, offering a refreshing bite.
• As Part of a Potluck Spread: Its vibrant colors and flavors make it a standout dish at potlucks.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro on top adds extra freshness and color to the dish.
• Lime Wedges: Serving lime wedges alongside allows guests to add more citrus flavor as desired.
• Extra Cotija Cheese: Offering additional cotija cheese lets people customize their servings for a cheese lover’s delight.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

To achieve the best results with your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavors: Use fresh lime juice for brightness; it enhances the overall flavor profile of the salad.
• Fresh Ingredients: Choose ripe corn and fresh herbs; they contribute significantly to the salad’s taste and texture.
• Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes; this helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Consider adding diced jalapeños or avocado for extra heat and creaminess; they can elevate your dish even further.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

When planning your meal, consider pairing your Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad with these complementary side dishes. They enhance your dining experience and bring variety to the table.

1. Black Beans: A protein-rich side that adds depth and pairs well with Mexican flavors. Serve them warm or cold.
2. Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice dish offers a perfect balance of citrusy and earthy notes alongside your pasta salad.
3. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole not only tastes delicious but also provides a rich texture that complements the other dishes.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make for an irresistible crunchy contrast to your soft pasta salad.
5. Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and health benefits while matching well with any summer meal.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast and are easy to grab as finger food.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad can be easy, but a few common mistakes can ruin this delightful dish.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Always cook it al dente, which gives a nice bite in the salad.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Be sure to sample your salad and add more lime juice or salt as needed.
• Using frozen corn: While convenient, frozen corn lacks the smoky flavor of grilled corn. Always opt for fresh grilled corn for that authentic taste.
• Not chilling before serving: Serving immediately may not allow flavors to meld. Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving for an enhanced flavor.
• Skipping garnishes: Garnishes like fresh cilantro and lime wedges elevate the presentation and flavor. Don’t overlook these finishing touches!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the salad is completely cool before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended since it can affect the texture of the pasta and vegetables.
• If necessary, store in a freezer-safe container but consume within 1 month.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad tastes even better when made ahead of time. Prepare it a day before and refrigerate it.

What type of pasta works best for this salad?

Radiatori pasta is ideal due to its shape, which holds sauce well. However, any short pasta will work.

How can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad?

Feel free to add ingredients like black beans, diced bell peppers, or jalapeños for added flavor and texture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad gluten-free, simply swap out regular pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties available at most grocery stores.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is not just tasty; it’s versatile and perfect for any gathering. The combination of smoky corn and creamy dressing makes it irresistible. Feel free to customize by adding extra veggies or proteins to suit your taste! Enjoy this vibrant side dish at your next cookout or potluck!

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